How to choose the best garden hose

2024-05-23

There is a seemingly endless selection of garden hoses, which makes choosing the right one feel like a huge job. To help make the job easier, we are going to cover the many things you need to consider before heading to the garden aisle.

Different types of garden hoses

There are many different types of garden hoses. Some of the most popular ones include:

STANDARD HOSE

This is the most common type of hose, typically used for general watering and cleaning tasks. They come in various lengths and are usually made of vinyl or rubber.

SOAKER HOSES

These are porous hoses that allow water to seep out slowly along its entire length. They are ideal for watering plants as they deliver water directly to the roots, minimizing evaporation and water waste.

SPRINKLER HOSE

These hoses have tiny perforations down the length of the hose, sprinkling the surrounding area with water. Many sprinkler hoses can be flipped over to double at a soaker hose.

FLAT HOSE

These are hoses that can be laid flat on the ground and expand when filled with water. They are lightweight, easy to store, and perfect for tight spaces but they may not be as durable as standard hoses.

COILED HOSE

These hoses come in a pre-coiled design that helps prevent tangles and kinks. They are ideal for small areas or when you need a hose that is easy to maneuver. Coiled hoses are typically shorter than a standard garden hose.

EXPANDABLE HOSE

These hoses are designed to expand several times their original length when filled with water and contract when emptied. They are lightweight, compact for storage, and easy to maneuver but may not be as durable as standard hoses.

DRINKING WATER HOSE

These hoses are specifically designed for transporting drinking water. They are made from safe materials that won't leach chemicals into the water and are typically certified to meet national safety standards. Look for labels like "NSF-61" or "food-grade" to ensure they are suitable for drinking water. While it isn’t necessary, if you’re concerned about chemical leaching into your plants, you can use a drinking water hose for edible gardens.

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